In Spades

Style... in abundance

Denim’s New Trend: Barrel Leg Jeans

Barrel Leg JeansBarrel Leg Jeans Barrel Leg JeansNaadam cashmere sweater // Levi’s barrel leg jeans // Prada mules (similar here)
Gucci sunglasses // Bottega Veneta bag

Denim trends change all the time.  And honestly, I love it.  I wear jeans more than anything else and love experimenting with different styles.

The 80s and 90s have played a huge role in the types of denim trends we’re seeing now.  Hello, Mom jeans.  We’re also moving away from skinny jeans in favor of a true straight leg.

The newest take on straight leg jeans is a high waist, cropped style that tapers at the ankle.  Barrel jeans and balloon jeans are super flattering because they elongate the legs. While skinny jeans draw attention to your hips, barrel leg jeans even out the ratio from hip to ankle.

I love the stitching and wash on this pair, but they also come in lots of other washes and colors.

If you’re looking for a more 90s inspired style, try balloon leg jeans.  These tend to be longer in length and wider through the leg, so if you have long legs, definitely give them a try (or be prepared to wear heels or platforms).  I tried these on over the weekend and adored them.  Be sure to go up one size.

Cropped sweaters and tops are an ideal pairing with these jeans because of the high waist.  I paired my Naadam cashmere sweater (on sale for $100!) with these babies (you MUST check out the brand – read my review here).

Oh, and I got a new handbag.  Teehee.

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Leopard Print Mini

Leopard Print Mini Skirt Leopard Print Mini SkirtLeopard Print Mini Skirt

Leopard mini skirt // Sweater // Sunglasses // Shoes (similar here)

Sometimes you just need a mini skirt.

I don’t own many, but lately I’ve picked up a couple (like this one).

What I like about them are the endless footwear options.  You can seriously wear any kind of shoe with a mini skirt.  Sneakers, flats, boots, stilettos – they all look amazing.

For these transition months where the weather is cool in the morning and warm during the afternoon, a mini skirt is a great option.  Since I’m not one for showing a lot of skin, I think minis look best with a more substantial top.  Think sweaters, blazers or fitted turtlenecks.

I love the neon accent of this leopard print mini.  It’s on trend, but not too trendy.  This sweater reminded me of a Prada one I’ve been dying over, but at a fraction of the price.  It’s on sale for less than $60.

Of course I had to finish the look with some of my favorite shoes ever.  It’s a 90s vibe and I’ll take it.

Shop the post below for options at every price point.

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Band tee + Vintage Levi’s

Band tee & Vintage Levi's Band tee & Vintage Levi'sBand tee & Vintage Levi's Band tee & Vintage Levi'sMadeworn band tee // Vintage Levi’s (similar here) // Understated Leather jacket  (under $100 version here)
Gucci sunglasses ($55 version here) // Haider Ackermann boots (under $100 version here)

What a weekend.

If you saw my Fashion Friday, you know we sadly had to cancel our trip to NYFW.  While I’m super happy with our decision to stay home (sick baby that needs love!), I’m anxiously watching the runway coverage from my couch.

It definitely stings not being able to see the magic in person, but I am super grateful to actually have the time to watch and catch up on all the coverage (something I’m never able to do in the moment).

Anytime I’m feeling bummed out, I like to put on an outfit that makes me feel strong.  There’s nothing like a leather jacket, killer boots and great denim to make you feel like a badass.  Not only is this look comfortable, but it’s a great outfit formula to come back to again and again.

 Here are some tips for selecting the perfect band tee and vintage denim
  1. Vintage denim sizing will be totally different than the size you wear today.  Don’t look at the number on the tag.  Instead, know your measurements.  Need a quick guess if something will fit?  The length of your elbow to your wrist should fit inside the waistline of a pair of jeans.  It’s a rough estimate, but if this is way off, they likely won’t fit.
  2. Shop the men’s section.  This applies to both band tees and vintage denim.  Both have better fits and more options!
  3. For vintage Levi’s, always look at the tag on the back pocket.  Orange tabs signify more fashion-forward and experimental styles of the past.  You always want an orange tab!  And if you can find Levi’s with a capital “E” on the tab, they are pre-1971.  Get them!
  4. This brand is my favorite for band tees.  They are small-batch, reworked vintage garments, so there is a lot of history and love in them.  While more expensive, the construction and uniqueness of their pieces make them totally worth it.
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My New Favorite Skirt

LoveShackFancy mini skirt LoveShackFancy mini skirt LoveShackFancy mini skirtNordstrom sweater // LoveShackFancy skirt // Dorateymur boots
Celine sunglasses // Vasic New York handbag & key chain (similar here)

I don’t know about you, but I have the hardest time finding skirts.

I think it’s because I have short legs and a long torso, but finding the right silhouette and skirt length has always been a challenge for me.

Last year I experimented with clothing rental service Nuuly (read my review here) and found a skirt I adored.  It’s the one I’m wearing here but in this color.  I wore it a ton and almost purchased it (an option from the rental service).

The next month, I chose the dress version of this skirt.  After wearing it a ton and getting lots of compliments, I knew it was time.  The skirt needed to be added to my wardrobe.

I’m SO glad I purchased it.  It’s 100% cotton so you can wash it and runs TTS.  The longer length in the back provides the perfect amount of coverage, and it has an elastic waistband (super comfy).

I styled mine a la Parisian Chic with a striped sweater, black booties and a pop of red.  If you’re looking for a fun skirt that can easily transition day to night and from California winter to spring, this is it.  Right now it looks awesome with boots, but I know I’ll wear it a ton this summer with sandals too.

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Outfit Ideas: How to Wear Monochrome

Monochrome outfitMonochrome outfit Monochrome outfit Monochrome outfit

Raga ruffled sweater (similar here) // Club Monaco pants (similar here)
Janessa Leone fedora // Givenchy loafers

If you missed my Fashion Friday from a couple weeks ago, you know I chatted about style trends for the 2020’s.  While the last decade was all about maximalism – logo mania, print mixing, over-the-top everything (hello Dad sneakers) – the 20’s will be all about minimalism.

One of the easiest ways to rock a minimalist look is with a monochromatic palette.  When you wear one color head-to-toe, it creates a sleek, effortless effect.  You look put together, but not like you tried too hard.  In other words, instant it-girl.

There are a few things to keep in mind when going for a monochrome look.

How to Wear Monochrome

1. Change up your textures.
By mixing different fabrics, i.e. denim and linen, wool and silk, you eliminate the risk of your look falling flat.  When you’re only working with one color, it’s important to keep the eye moving.  Different textures achieve this beautifully.  Notice the ruffles on my wool sweater and the pleats in my pants.

2. Only color deviate with accessories.
It’s okay for one thing to be a different color.  But to keep your monochrome look consistent, you should only deviate with an accessory (like my hat).  And, make sure it’s just ONE accessory.

3. Try a Canadian tuxedo.
The oldest and most successful monochromatic look is double denim.  There’s a reason this look has a nickname.  Because denim has natural fading and wear & tear, there’s enough texture variation to keep the eye moving.

Shop my look below, including some great affordable alternatives!

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